SBP launches SMEConnect portal

The State Bank of Pakistan has introduced SMEConnect, an online gateway for small and medium-sized businesses seeking loans from banks and development finance institutions. From November 1, 2026, financing requests from these businesses must be submitted through the portal; applicants approaching lenders in person or via their websites will be directed there instead.

The platform is intended to make applications easier to submit and improve transparency and access to SME credit. Applicants can monitor progress and see why a request was declined, while an SBP dashboard will show live figures for submissions, decisions and disbursements at individual institutions and across the market. SBP has asked lenders to feature the portal on their websites and prepare staff to help users; a tutorial is also available. The central bank says the initiative supports financial inclusion, entrepreneurship and a stronger SME financing system.